The Thread - Financial News with a Twist!

Do divorce actions spike in January? Reasonable minds may differ over whether January is “Divorce Month,” but some headline makers didn’t wait for 2020 to file. Perhaps William Shatner’s prenuptial agreement (or being 88) made the timing significant. For the wife of Papa John’s owner, it may be that there were tax advantages to filing before year’s end. Ric Ocasek’s estate is facing a different dilemma. The lead vocalist of the Cars died before his divorce from Paulina Porizkova was final. She has chosen to pursue spousal election, which will likely lead to litigation, given the terms of his will.   Regardless of the season, if you are, or were, in the midst of a divorce and in need of financial analysis to inform your decision making regarding a property settlement agreement or spousal election, Asterion’s experts are available to assist you.      To protect your intellectual property, be prepared to sue Litigation is often a useful tool for protecting patents and trademarks. Nike was recently forced to cancel a $16 million ad campaign due to trademark violations. The daughter of Bruce Lee is suing a Chinese fast food chain, claiming unauthorized use of her father’s image. Sonos has sued Google, alleging violation of several of Sonos’ speaker tech patents. When you are assessing how to protect the integrity of your intellectual property, consider consulting with Asterion to determine not only the value of your assets, but also the damages you may have incurred.       FYI The Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy has issued a report examining the impact of year one of the Tax Cuts and Job Act.    Trends We’re Watching Law enforcement is investing in genealogy sites.      On the Lighter Side: You don’t know what you’ve got ‘til it’s gone. Sugar shortages? Peppermint plants dying off? Fewer French fries? What does this mean for 2020? At least there are new snacks coming, including a ruby chocolate ice cream bar.      What’s Puzzling Us: How can airline food be this popular?   AirAsia operates a restaurant in Malaysia that serves only the food you get on its’ flights.        The Thread Recommends: Re-examining your retirement plans after passage of the Secure Retirement Act. Spotlight on Family Law Asterion, Inc. has extensive experience providing forensic, valuation and consulting services to family law attorneys and their clients.